A Colorado man has been formally charged with first-degree murder in the death of his estranged wife, more than two years after she was found dead in her home. Investigators say what first appeared to be a possible suicide later turned into a homicide case after detailed forensic and digital evidence review.
The case has drawn strong reactions from the victim’s family, who say they always believed she would never take her own life.
Here is a clear breakdown of what happened and what prosecutors have revealed so far.
Woman Found Dead in Bennett Home in 2023
In October 2023, 42-year-old Richelle “Chelle” Lowry was found dead in her home in Bennett, Colorado. Deputies from the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office responded after she failed to show up for work and stopped replying to messages.
Investigators discovered that she had suffered a gunshot wound to the head. Her mobile phone was reportedly found submerged in water at the scene.
At first, her cause of death was listed as “undetermined,” and authorities considered the possibility of suicide. However, that conclusion later changed.
Investigation Shifts Toward Homicide
According to a press release from the 18th Judicial District Attorney’s Office, an extensive investigation involving forensic testing and digital evidence led officials to determine that Chelle’s death was a homicide.
Autopsy results showed she died from a close-range gunshot wound to the head. Reports from CBS News Colorado stated that she also had suspicious bruising and a large hematoma on her forehead.
Male DNA was found on her body, though early testing reportedly could not provide clear results due to sample quality. Later medical review led to her death certificate being reissued, officially ruling her death a homicide.
Ronald Lowry Arrested and Indicted
Ronald Lowry, 52, was arrested and indicted by a grand jury.
He now faces several charges, including:
- First-degree murder
- Two counts of stalking
- Tampering with physical evidence
- Violent crime causing serious bodily injury or death
- Violent crime using a deadly weapon
All charges are classified as acts of domestic violence.
Court records obtained by KUSA state that investigators believed Ronald was jealous and angry after their separation. Authorities allege that he stalked Chelle and secretly recorded her with a boyfriend before her death.
Security camera footage reportedly captured a man resembling Ronald near her home around the time she died.
Family Statements Raise Concerns
According to court documents, friends and family members said Chelle had clearly told them she would never take her own life.
Records cited by KUSA state that she told a friend that if anything happened to her, Ronald would be responsible.
Her family also shared that she was only days away from finalising her divorce at the time of her death.
Her stepbrother, Dave Norman, told KUSA that the family believes Ronald is responsible and hopes he faces life in prison.
Prosecutors Speak on the Case
District Attorney Amy Padden said the indictment marks an important step toward justice for Richelle Lowry. She stated that her office remains committed to holding individuals accountable when evidence supports charges.
Assistant District Attorney Ryan Brackley praised investigators from the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office, saying they carefully examined forensic, digital and testimonial evidence over a long period.
Ronald Lowry has been booked into the Morgan County Jail as the case moves forward.
What Happens Next?
The indictment means the case will proceed through the court system. Prosecutors will present their evidence, while the defence will have the opportunity to respond.
As of now, Ronald Lowry has not been convicted, and the case remains ongoing.
